Emdad Rahman
BARKING & Dagenham was the talk of the town at the annual Essex County Cricket League awards night 2017 as both Scintilla CC and Barking CC were awarded the League and Cup to round off a brilliant season for the London borough’s representatives.
ECCL Chair Nadim Ishaq thanked guests, sponsors, players and officials for their attendance. He said, “I’d like to give a big hand to everyone – including the current, serving, committee – for another memorable season.”
There was special applause for youngster Shahaan Hussain, who was accompanied by his father Alfie Hussain and grandfather Azhur Hussain. On 4th August, in the clash against Aztecs, Shahaan took four wickets. On the verge of a fifer, with one over left, he left the field unwell. It turned his life around. Within a week Shahaan had emergency life saving surgery and spent his 16th birthday in an induced coma. Shahaan’s bravery is immense and he is on the road to recovery. Unsurprisingly, he received the biggest applause of the evening.
Triumphant Scintilla captain Adil Ejaz said, “This had truly been a fairytale season for us. The cup final had everything and was a typical blood and thunder game. Even though we were under huge pressure for a long period, what I’m most proud of is our resilience and refusal to lie down – it’s the Scintilla way.”
After being named best batsman for 2017, Barking vice captain Pulkit Gupta added, “This has been an enjoyable but gruelling campaign, but the strength of our collective character was most important in keeping us competitive throughout. We have excellent unity throughout and it is a mark of our togetherness that we have been able to be so successful once again.”
After receiving an award from National Cricket League co-founder Sajid Patel, Barking head coach Kanan Thiyagarajah commented, “Our success is no mean feat and it is hugely important for the youngsters who are here today to witness and learn about our winning culture.”
Scintilla club captain Ahmed Choudhury concluded, “Our spirit is what has kept us on the front foot for over a decade. It’s another hugely proud moment in our history. We now focus and start our preparations for what promises to be an exciting season in 2018.”
•Read more about it: Scintillating Scintilla are ECCL Cup Champions! Two in a row as Walid and Scintilla break records
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